In regard to stem cell research, Dr. Barry Ramo said, "I think the potential is enormous. There are many diseases in which there are abnormalities in enzymes, so if a stem cell can be created to take over those functions, that's really a possibility."

But many anti-abortion advocates still oppose the research.

"Why are we pushing so much for embryonic stem cell research instead of putting our bucks where it's working?" asked Dauneen Dolce, executive director of the Right to Life Committee of New Mexico.

Dolce is concerned about the ethics of using embryos and said focus and funding should be placed into research on adult stem cells.

She said, "What works without destruction is what we should go to."

But Cody Unser said ani-abortion supporters have no reasons to be concerned.

"The ethics are going to be behind this research, which I know a lot of people are concerned about," Cody said.

For Cody's mom, Obama's decision Monday is a huge step forward.

Shelley said, "What it means to me is my daughter's chance at walking."